A recent document submitted to Canada’s inquiry into foreign election interference has revealed that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau received briefings regarding allegations of foreign interference in former Liberal MP Han Dong’s riding before the 2019 election. These briefings reportedly took place in late September or early October 2019, just before the federal election on October 21. The Privy Council records do not reflect these briefings, indicating that information may have been overlooked or omitted. The inquiry has heard that Chinese international students may have been bused in to vote in Dong’s 2019 nomination contest, but there is no evidence suggesting Dong was aware of these alleged efforts to interfere in the race.
Additional documents presented at the inquiry highlighted irregularities in the race for Don Valley North, including the use of busses with students to potentially influence the outcome. However, the information provided did not reach the threshold for public disclosure. Nathalie Drouin, a panel member in 2019 and Trudeau’s current national security and intelligence adviser, confirmed the existence of busses with students but stated that not all elements of the allegations were corroborated. Dong, although not named in the summaries, testified at the inquiry and denied any knowledge of students using falsified documents to vote in the nomination.
During a news conference in 2023, Trudeau defended Dong when questioned about the spy agency’s concerns and possible briefing to the Prime Minister. Trudeau highlighted a rise in anti-Asian racism and expressed support for Dong as a valuable member of their team. Despite questions about Dong’s potential return to the Liberal caucus, Trudeau did not provide a clear answer regarding his current views or the possibility of Dong rejoining the party. Dong, who now sits as an independent MP, testified at the inquiry and denied any involvement or knowledge of coerced voting practices among Chinese international students.
The documents also include allegations that Dong had a phone conversation with China’s consul general in Toronto regarding the detention of the “Two Michaels” in 2021. The conversation allegedly involved Dong advising against the immediate release of the Canadians, suggesting that transparency around their detention would be more beneficial for relations between Canada and China. Dong has disputed these claims and is involved in a legal dispute with Global’s parent company. The MP maintained that he has always advocated for the release of the “Two Michaels” and stated that the information in the summary did not align with his recollection of the conversation.
The inquiry has shed light on potential foreign interference in Canadian elections and highlighted the need for greater transparency and oversight in the electoral process. Trudeau is scheduled to testify at the inquiry, where he may face further questions regarding his knowledge of the allegations and his response to the situation involving Dong. The revelations and testimonies from the inquiry raise concerns about the integrity of the nomination process and the implications of foreign influence on Canadian politics. Moving forward, it will be crucial to address any vulnerabilities in the electoral system to safeguard democracy and ensure fair and free elections for all Canadians.
